SVP - Global Innovation Unit - Global Training - Education - IIM/IIT

The Unit :

- Global Innovation Unit (GIU) is the global R&D and innovation think-tank of the Group, mandated to conceive, partner, launch and scale new initiatives and ventures that have the potential to transform the world of education.

- GIU conducts research, analysis and dissemination of breakthrough ideas, concepts and market intelligence in areas related to learning, teaching, education technology and social innovation, with the aim to expand global learning horizons and the Group's educational values and commercial interests.

The Role :

- To own and drive all facets of GIU research, development and thought leadership, focused on bringing a positive impact to the community and the company through research, innovation and entrepreneurship.

- This is a hybrid business/technical position and requires a strong blend of general management and project management skills, product vision, financial savvy, and superior communication skills.

- The SVP - GIU is responsible for setting the overall research agenda and for ensuring a continuous flow of research and innovation activities that lead to the improvement of existing business and processes, conception of new business/product plans and identification of investment opportunities in outstanding start-ups, individuals and technologies aligned to GIU vision and goals.

- The role, although based out of Mumbai, is a global one responsible for setting up GIU global research and innovation activities.

- The SVP-GIU will work with the Managing Director - GIU and various regional GIU senior management to plan and execute short and long-term research and data-led business strategy by understanding the organization's knowledge gaps and requirements, managing appropriate research and innovation activities, and sharing insights and outputs with key decision makers across the organization.

- This person is expected to be a highly motivated self-starter and a team leader, managing, inspiring and growing a start-up team of researchers and analysts.

The Candidate Profile :

- Engineer + MBA from Tier 1 institutions (IIT/IIMs preferred)

- Overall 15+ years of experience in research and innovation management and technology strategy, consulting.

- Having minimum 5+ years in an executive leadership role reporting to C-suite, managing multiple teams, projects and initiatives.

- General management or project management experience with track record of success at a media, consumer technology, digital publishing, education or in an internet company.

- Collaborative research and innovation - evangelist- with skill in managing and championing change in an organization; a leader who has displayed an ability to encourage and promote the role of research and innovation.

- Content management and learning management systems exposure will be seen as a plus.